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Scottie Scheffler watches during the 2026 US Open
Scotty Scheffler is eight strokes off the lead after his first round of the US Open. The world’s No. 1 golfer shot +2 on Thursday at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York.
He was seen arguing with veteran trainer Randy Scott after completing his day. Is it cause for concern?
Maybe. It certainly wasn’t the start I expected. However, delving into his 2026 season, it’s probably a little early to rule out the golfer.
Scottie Scheffler’s argument leads the US Open fights.
Trouble in paradise? pic.twitter.com/fD1IybGDCs
—Christopher Powers (@CPowers14) June 18, 2026
Scheffler shot 72 on Thursday to finish two over par. He is eight shots behind leader Wydham Clark after a -6 first round (through 16 holes).
Scheffler’s front nine was a battle. He recorded two bogeys and a double to finish +3. He cleaned things up at the back, making three birdies to get back within striking distance.
At the moment, he is tied for 49th place. He showed some frustration after the fact.
Cameras caught Scheffler arguing with Randy Scott on the practice field. His grip seemed to be the topic of conversation.
The commentary team pushed the interaction aside. There is no reason to panic yet.
“He just knows how important these fundamentals are to Scottie, and it’s not unusual. They’ll go back and forth. They’ve known each other a long time, so they’re going to have these conversations. It’s been pretty well documented this year that Scotty has been missing shots to the right.”
Scheffler wants to get it right before Day 2. The argument was a product of inconsistency, but it can be attributed to the competitive mentality of the sport’s best player.
Recent history says there is no reason to worry.
Scottie Scheffler First round struggles have been documented this season. The trend continued Thursday at the US Open.
Scheffler competed in 12 events this year. He has won once and has achieved six other Top 5s. In seven of his tournaments, his first round has been the worst.
That includes a 73 at the Phoenix Open, where he finished third, and a 72 at Pebble Beach, where he placed fourth.
In almost every event this season, he shined from Friday to Sunday. You should be very comfortable playing from the back.
Thursday’s conditions were difficult for every golfer on the course not named Wyndham Clark. Scheffler is just four strokes away from second place. The land can be easily recovered.
Scheffler has demonstrated his ability to quickly rise through the ranks with good results. He was frustrated with his opening day, but he’s doing his best to make adjustments.
The plot and overall performance are nothing to worry about at this point. If fighting continues into Friday, that conversation may change.
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